This is book two to the Authentically Izzy series in the fictional town of Skymar, featuring none other than sister, Penelope.

This is another epistolary story. (a novel in the form of letters…and/or texts/emails.) A unique format that gives You’ve Got Mail vibes. This story has an air of mystery to it as well with a secretive emailer.

This book contains all the things we love from a Pepper Basham book—humor, fun, mystery, charming characters, great banter, and (duh) kissing. 😏😉

This is a hit for fans of theater, Julie Andrews, princesses/fairytales, classic movie references, annnnd —>

Tropes:
Grumpy x sunshine
Small town
Single dad

You’ll find Penelope’s character to be adorable, sweet, fun, theatrical (think: Elle Woods meets Mary Poppins) and of course, positive. She’s sweet character to get behind.

Next up will be the charmingly hilarious and witty Luke Edgewood (brother to Izzy and Penelope).

POSITIVELY, PENELOPE is an epistolary novel that re-introduces the reader to Penelope. We got to know her pretty well in the first book, Authentically Izzy, but now we learn even more. Penelope travels to Skymar to work for three months at a historical theatre on the island. Penelope has experience in marketing and they are hoping she can come up with a plan to save the theatre. POSITIVELY PENELOPE is filled with twists and turns that will have you laughing out loud! When Penelope meets Matt her life changes no matter how grumpy he always seems to be. He is a single dad to Iris and isn’t interested in A relationship as he has had his heart broken in the past. That’s all I’m saying!

POSITIVELY, PENELOPE is exactly why I love Pepper Basham’s books. She always leaves me with a big smile on my face and screaming for more. That’s how wrapped up I get into her writing. Pepper has become one of my very favorite go to authors and I devour her books like a fine box of chocolates. I try to take my time and read slowly to make it last, but usually half way through I lose all control and flip the pages like a mad woman!! Penelope also loves to bake which made me love her that much more!

Pepper Basham has once again left me in tears and crying for more. I now know I will devour everything this awesome author writes and do it all easily with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes. I really loved POSITIVELY, PENELOPE Wow wow wow!! From the very first page I was emotionally invested in all of these wonderful people. Please, you have to give Pepper Basham a try! You won’t be sorry. I can’t wait to read more by one of my very favorite authors. I have made it a quest to catch up on the rest of her books because her writing is just that good. She makes her readers feel every emotion her characters are feeling to the point where you feel as if you are right there, struggling along with them. Now we have to patiently wait for Luke’s book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I didn’t realize this was part of a series going in, but it was not what I expected requesting a download of a romcom. It had some Christian undertones, which is fine but it would’ve been nice knowing going into it if a reader practices other religions.

This cover alone made me so excited to get an arc for this book! Once reading it, it did not disappoint. The storytelling in emails and text messages was different but I found myself really enjoying it. Penelope was a character I found myself really loving as I got more into the story. Her love for movies and romance really resonated with me! If you love a fun easy magical read, i’d recommend this book!

An adorable sequel to Authentically, Izzie featuring her younger much more extroverted sister. I loved the musical references sprinkled throughout. The dynamic between her and her love interest was made of similar stuff to that between Maria and Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music. It's a fun read, though I did spend a little longer than I would've liked waiting for her to figure out the bad guy was the bad guy.

The characters are endearing overall, many of whom the reader would already be familiar with if they read the previous novel. Penelope did come across as a little younger than her age but the story addresses this.

The theology included felt a little tacked on. The book seems to feel the need to speak repeatedly of Christian values but immediately steps away to avoid being preachy. It feels like they could've left it out entirely, with perhaps just a reference to the character going to church if they wanted us to know she's a Christian.

If you're looking for a sweet escape in the form of romance this is a good choice. It is epistolary, told primarily through emails, which I love as well.

Pepper Basham is one of my new favorite authors. The book, Positively, Penelope is wonderful. I recommend everyone should read this book.

**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**

This book had me laughing, swooning, fangirling, sighing, smiling, and even falling in love.

If I was an extrovert, Penelope and I would be twins. (Except for her red hair and my bookish tendencies which are more akin to Penelope's cousin, Izzy.) I already loved Penelope in the first book - "Authentically, Izzy" - so reading her own story was incredibly entertaining. I mean who doesn't want to wear cloche hats and walk around with a Mary Poppins bag? She could have been the main character in a thriller and I would probably still read it because she is so fun. Also, Penelope starring in a thriller, @pepperbasham, I think you've got a story idea right there.

Then, I met Matthias Gray and... well, you know me...

*Anna adding Matthias to already infinite list of fictional crushes.*

Matt's inner dialogue was so sweet and the way he fought his feelings for Penelope made my heart throb. Their relationship was almost slow-burn and their chemistry... *chefs kiss*. I've always liked grumpy/sunshine romances but this book solidifies my love for the trope.

I also loved getting to read about their deepest fears, and how they see themselves and the world. They teach each other lessons that help them to grow as individuals. The character development was really well done, and yet it's not super heavy or intense so that it still feels lighthearted. It was the perfect balance.

I can't wait till March to read the final book in the Skymar trilogy, "Loyally, Luke". Is there any way you can move the release date Pepper? Pleading emoji.

Although, I'd recommend reading "Authentically, Izzy" first, don't miss out on Positively, Penelope! It will keep you smiling for days.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This story is absolutely delightful! I really enjoyed the first book in this series and Positively, Penelope is great addition. As we travel once again to Skymar, we meet new characters and welcome back old ones. The characters are fun, funny, and very likeable. I really enjoy the family dynamics, on both sides of this story. It portrays quite well how different families can be, and yet how similar they can be as well. Matt is such a fun protagonist! He is misunderstood to those who aren't close to him, yet I loved how Penelope could see straight to his heart. So sweet! Lastly, the icing on this cake are the many classic movie references. I love ALL things Julie Andrews, so that part of the story was a definite draw! All in all, a totally enjoyable read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

THE EASIEST 5 STARS FOR A CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE !!!!!!

Seriously, I don't remember the last time, I enjoyed every single second of a contemporary romance. Positively Penelope was positively perfect in every way:
- real characters with real dreams, relationship issues, family dynamics, doubts, fears, and joys
- the romance was PERFECTLY paced with a deliciously satisfying conclusion (AND NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP, hallelujah)
- The theater/musicals love seeped in every page. Not just the shows, but the community aspect as well
- I loved the family dynamics of Penelope and her siblings and the Gray family
- Laugh out loud moments often!
- the texts between Penelope and her siblings made me realize how much I appreciate my siblings as well <3
- I really appreciated Penelope's inner dialogue about her dreams for her future and her feelings for Matt. Both were honored and both were upheld!
- I expected the villain's identity, but it was still heartbreaking all the same. I'm glad the resolution was full of hope for them!

So excited for Pepper's next book, about Luke ;)

Title: Positively Penelope

Author: Pepper Basham


Ch: 23


Pg: 416


Series: Skymar # 2


Genre: Christian fiction rom com


Rating: 4.5 stars


Publisher: Thomas Nelson


Positively Penelope is the second book in the Skymar series. And I enjoyed it just as much as I did Accidentally Izzy. In this one Penelope comes into her own. And the reader gets to see her grow even more than she did in the first book. I enjoyed getting to see more of the island of Skymar. And of course, Matt and Isis help to make the story. And I’ve also found that the single dad troupe is starting to grow on me.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Loved the story and characters and superb writing. Highly recommend for a clean romance with christian undertones.

love a good flashback to my theatre days. the angst that comes with the stage is a force to be reckoned with!!

"Positively, Penelope" was everything I was hoping it would be after falling in love with the main characters in "Authentically, Izzy." Although I have more in common with bookish Izzy than her fashionista thespian cousin, I found Penelope to be surprisingly relatable with her genuine sweetness and clumsy antics. My favorite thing about this book has to be all the Rambo references in honor of Pepper's late dad, who lovingly read all of her books and offered his feedback on how to fit in his favorite movie hero. I hope to see some more Rambo references in "Loyally, Luke." Some of my favorite quotes that capture the essence of Penelope:

"I can tell this is going to be a delicious mystery. My scalp is tingling at the possibilities."

"Sunshine and sugar have to be one of the best happiness combos in the world."

"I'd rather be hopeful and disappointed than to have tempered expectations. That just sounds like eating generic chocolate instead of the name brand."

"She painted the world with melodies and joy."

"And the perfection continued with laughter and flour."

And a perfect kissing quote that you will just have to read for yourself!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

In a Nutshell: Quite similar to the first book of the series, in both good points and the not-so-good points. I liked the first one better for the bookish bits. A fun read, if you are okay with the never-ending emails and postscripts, and with the repeat of the formula from Book One.

Story Synopsis:
The youngest Edgewood sibling, twenty-three-year-old Penelope, has just landed on the beautiful island of Skymar for a three-month internship with the local Darling House Theatre. As a lover of musicals, she brings with her boundless energy and a tendency to burst into song, both of which are somewhat unnerving to the serious theatre owner, Matt Gray, though his brother Alec seems fascinated by the American whirlwind.
Penelope starts her venture with her whole heart, but deep within, she longs to be taken seriously, as most people around her seem to focus only on her clothes and her chirpiness instead of on her brain. To add to her woes, someone is stealing her marketing ideas. The only moral support she has locally, other than her dear family back at home, are Matt’s seven-year-old daughter Iris, and a mysterious GK - an online friend who is helping her resurrect the theatre. Will Penelope’s endless positivity be enough to sustain her spirits and get Darling House back on track?
The book comes to us mostly through various emails and text messages, exchanged across the Edgewood siblings (Penelope, Izzy, Josephine and Luke all reprising their roles from the first book), the online theatre group that GK and Penelope are a part of, and the Gray family.

You might get a sense of déjà vu from my review, but many of the points I have to cover here are the same as my feedback for the first book of this series, ‘Authentically Izzy.’ The two books make a perfect pair in terms of vibe, storyline, characters, and writing.

Bookish Yays:
😍 Penelope is a tough character to get right. She is THIS close to being over the top, what with her constant bubbliness, her habit of filling her messages with exclamation marks (and even CAPS at times), and her obsession with musicals. (She is also crazy about Julie Andrews, but I totally get that!) Her personality seemed to combine traits of Marianne (from Jane Austen’s ‘Sense and Sensibility’), Rebecca (from the Shopaholic series), and Giselle (from the movie ‘Enchanted’.) Why I still like Penelope is because of how the author wrote her with depth. She is considered an airhead by many other characters just because of her fondness for trivialities such as fashion and musicals, but she has brains and a keen understanding of character. She isn’t just a ‘spoonful of sugar’ but a barrelful of sugar accompanied with an equal amount of spice. Rarely do I love a character who has barely anything in common with me, but in this case, I did.
😍 The Edgewood sibling bond is evident even in this book, though the focus of the email interactions isn’t as focussed on them as the first time around. Josephine, Luke and Izzy still have the same strong personalities as they displayed in ‘Authentically Izzy’. I liked how the author didn’t give them any character makeovers but retained their spirit.
😍 Of the new characters, the most impactful are clearly Matt (loved his full name – Matthias! What a welcome change from the more typical Matthew!) and his little daughter Iris. Matt begins as the typical grump whose ice melts under the sunshine that is Penelope. But the reasons for his reserved nature is nicely sketched in the plot, unlike most romcoms where we don’t even know why the MMC acts so standoffish. Iris is the sweetest child, and I wish there had been more on her on page. The little we see of her is enough to show that she is a doll! The father-daughter connection between Matt and Iris is adorable.
😍 For a romcom with such a “positive” lead character, the book covers some intense themes such as grief, heartbreak, and childhood trauma. What I especially appreciate was how these were inserted naturally in the plot without them feeling like some kind of social agenda.
😍 Skymar still doesn’t seem fictional. (I think it is based on the Skye island in Scotland.) The portrayal of its natural features combined with its architectural landmarks and cultural heritage makes me wish it were an actual place.
😍 This time, I was prepared for the book to have Christian elements. Just as in the first book, I appreciated this kind of approach to Christian fiction, where faith is not imposed on readers through biblical verses and fire-and-brimstone homilies, but is a routine part of the characters’ conversation. Penelope also remarks on various ritualistic ideas such as going to mass and saying prayers in a practical manner. One thing I wasn’t prepared for, but I adored, is the inclusion of a divorced single dad as the main character. (I can see over-conservative believers protesting against such a character in this genre, but to me, these elements were a glorious depiction of true Christianity – accepting and non-judgemental.)
😍 The above obviously ensures that the romance is clean, except for a few kisses in the final quarter. (Penelope has a great rationale for kisses being acceptable in God’s eyes – I couldn’t help but laugh at her research!)

Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 The writing pattern is the same as the first book, so my experience is the same. The book begins with a barrage of emails across various characters, and after about one-third, it shifts to a mix of email communication and third-person narrative. I enjoyed the combo approach better, as the emails, with their overabundant PS and PPS and PPPS add-ons, began getting on my nerves after a while.
😐 One factor that I truly missed from the first book was its focus on books, courtesy Izzy’s work as a librarian and her passion for bookish quotes. This time around, Penelope is a theatre and musical lover, so all her character makes plenty of references to musicals. Thankfully, my knowledge of old Hollywood musicals is pretty strong, so the mentions of favourite movies such as ‘The Sound of Music’ and of stars like Gene Kelly and Julie Andrews made me nostalgic. But I have not seen ‘My Fair Lady’ (I know, I know!!!), so those trivia went above my head. I am not sure how these elements would work with any reader who isn’t so aware of old musicals.

Bookish Nays:
😒 Again, I find it unbelievable that family members would exchange so many emails in 2023. Of course, it is a tad more sensible this time because of the time and location difference. But seriously, don’t US residents use WhatsApp for family chats? (If my family members start emailing me so frequently and in such length, I’ll block them!)
😒 At 410+ pages, this is quite lengthy for the romcom genre. Thankfully, I was more prepared for the writing style this time, so I didn’t take as long to read the book. But many of the plot points could have been crisper.
😒 The love triangle, which was barely there tbh, was a dud even this time. As I have mentioned before, triangles make sense only when we feel the tug between the two competing characters. But when the resolution of the triangle is clear from the very first start, it is pointless and boring.
😒 The mystery of who is stealing Penelope's marketing ideas is not at all hard to guess. The clues are quite obvious, so it is tiresome to wait for the characters to realise what you already know.
😒 I think the book went a bit overboard on the fairy tale elements. A few plot developments seem to occur just to give Penelope an opportunity to depict her passion for fairy tales (and her obsession with occasion-appropriate fashion), even when they didn’t fit into the natural flow of the story.

All in all, despite the few issues I had, I enjoyed this story *almost* as much as the first book. The approach is quite similar, but Izzy’s bookish introversion made me connect more to her than Penelope’s bombastic positivity and fashion-passion. Still, the story is as promised, and will work nicely for a light read, as long as you are prepared for the epistolary style.

Though the two books are sequential, they work well as a standalone. But being the series freak that I am, I would obviously recommend you read both the books in the right order, as you get a wonderful introduction to the Edgewoods in the first book.

The third book is already in the works, and it will be focussed on Luke, who is the most sensible and sarcastic of the siblings. Considering my fondness for all things pragmatic, I can’t wait to see what awaits Mr. Logical Luke in the next work. The ending of this book has already laid the groundwork for his story.

3.75 stars. (Same official rating as the first book, but it’s more like 3.8 for that one and 3.7 for this one.)

My thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the DRC of “Positively, Penelope”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

This follow-up to Authentically, Izzy is another gentle romance told partly in an epistolary format. Penelope's optimism is a breath of fresh air, and the hints of mystery and intrigue that accompany the romance make this novel a real page-turner. It was really fun to return to Skymar and its people, and to follow the peaks and valleys of a budding grumpy/sunshine relationship. Just as the first book was littered with literary references, this one includes many allusions to musicals, which added another fun dimension. I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as the first, but it's still a great read for fans of wholesome romance stories where family plays a significant role.

The story makes justice to the name, Positively, Penelope shows us the bright and positive Penelope story, So different for Authentically, Izzy but still familiar, it totally makes sense for Penelope to end with a grumpy single dad. I love them and I would read their story 30x more.

This was such a charming read. I loved the texts and emails in the storytrelling. and thought it entered a different vibe to the story.
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Delightful, fun, wonderfully written and precious! I loved this book and the unique way in which it was written! Pepper Basham creates worlds within her books that I want to live in! Definitely worth the read! This book was provided to me through Netgalley. The opinions expressed here are my own.

Penelope just radiates positive energy, she is very uplifting. Her energy spreads to those around her while working at the theatre. Matt and Izzy are a cute father daughter duo, their inclusion of Penelope into their lives was seamless and entertaining. Loved reading this book, great to see what Izzy and Brody are up to.

Positively Penelope is positively delightful, as we are transported once again Skymer, a fictional island that is a cross between Scotland and Switzerland.

Penelope is a dreamer that has personality that permeates the atmosphere around her. She is light, and hope and all the happy things that many in our world turn away from. Wanting nothing but the best for the people around her, Penelope moves, heaven and earth to make good things happen to the gray family and the darling House theater. I love how she refused to quit, no matter how many hiccups came her way in the revitalization of the old theater.

In the town where I live, we have an old vaudevillian theater that our area has watched flourish, then succumb to a fire, and be rebuilt better than it was before. So this entire story had a tender place in my heart also being a theater brat at one time, Penelope’s determination was heartwarming, and even made me feel like anything is possible.

Oh, Matthias, he was a delight to read. Seeing hints of a Scottish accent, played right to my Scottish heart. Watching his heart open up after a couple years of grief and turmoil was definitely the highlight. He is a passionate man that grieves as hard as he loves.

Their chemistry is positively perfect in every way.